RI 5883 Comparison Of Methods For Detecting And Analyzing Fumes From Explosives ? Summary

A comparative study has been made by the Bureau of Mines of several analytical methods for determining carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides in toxic gases produced by the detonation of explosives. Laboratory and field methods and detector-tube devices are described. Analytical results are compared, and reliability of the various methods is discussed. INTRODUCTION In all underground mining there is ever-present danger to persons from possible overexposure to carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides created by explosives or blasting agents. These health hazards, recognized for many years, led to the early establishment by the Bureau of Mines of specific requirements regarding fumes generated by explosives authorized for use in underground coal mines in the United States.3